CSR
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
At Haughton Teas, we believe that our success is deeply connected to the well-being of the communities we serve and the environment in which we operate. As a subsidiary of Ruhunu Development Contractors & Engineers (Pvt) Ltd. (RDCE), we share the company’s strong commitment to corporate social responsibility, which drives us to act as responsible stewards of the environment, contribute to the social and economic upliftment of local communities, and uphold the highest ethical standards in all our operations.
Empowering Local Communities
One of the cornerstones of our CSR efforts is our commitment to supporting and uplifting the communities that are integral to our tea production process. Haughton Teas operates plantations that provide employment for hundreds of individuals, many of whom have lived and worked in these communities for generations. We take pride in offering fair wages, providing stable employment opportunities, and contributing to the socio-economic development of the regions in which we operate.
- Employment and Livelihoods: At Haughton Estate, we provide direct employment to over 250 individuals and indirectly support an additional 250 through various field and factory operations. Our plantations are more than workplaces—they are communities where we work hand-in-hand with local families to ensure that everyone benefits from the success of the tea industry.
- Education and Skill Development: As part of our commitment to enhancing the quality of life in local communities, we regularly invest in educational programs and training initiatives. These programs aim to improve the skills of our workers and provide them with opportunities for personal growth and development.
Sustainability and Environmental Protection
Haughton Teas is deeply committed to protecting the environment and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Our tea plantations are located in ecologically sensitive areas, including the misty hills of Kalawana, bordering the Sinharaja Rain Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We understand the importance of preserving this unique ecosystem, which is why we have implemented various eco-friendly practices aimed at minimizing our environmental footprint.
- Sustainable Farming Practices: We prioritize environmentally sustainable farming methods that promote soil health, biodiversity, and the overall well-being of the environment. By using natural pest control methods and reducing the use of harmful chemicals, we ensure that our tea cultivation practices are not only beneficial to the land but also safe for the workers who tend to it.
- Water Conservation and Energy Efficiency: We have adopted water conservation practices on our plantations, recognizing the importance of responsible water usage. Additionally, our tea processing factories utilize energy-efficient technologies to minimize energy consumption and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Supporting Health and Well-being
We understand that the well-being of our employees and their families is essential to the long-term success of our business. That’s why we provide a range of health and welfare benefits designed to improve the quality of life for those who live and work on our estates.
- Access to Healthcare: We ensure that our workers and their families have access to basic healthcare services, including medical check-ups and treatments. Our commitment to health extends beyond the workplace, with initiatives aimed at improving health and hygiene standards in local communities.
- Safe Working Conditions: We take the safety of our employees seriously, and we are constantly working to ensure that all of our tea production processes are carried out in a safe and secure environment. We provide our workers with the necessary safety equipment and training to minimize the risk of accidents and injuries.
Community Development Projects
As part of RDCE’s wider corporate social responsibility efforts, we are involved in community development projects that aim to improve the living standards of those in the regions where we operate. Through collaborations with local governments and non-governmental organizations, we have implemented projects such as:
- Housing Projects: We have supported the construction of housing for workers and their families, ensuring that they have access to safe, comfortable, and affordable homes. These housing initiatives have helped to improve living conditions for many in our tea-growing communities.
- Infrastructure Improvements: Our contributions to local infrastructure include the renovation of community facilities such as schools, temples, and healthcare centers. We have also supported the construction of roads and bridges, providing better connectivity for rural communities.
A Commitment to a Better Future
At Haughton Teas, we believe that corporate social responsibility is not just a business obligation but a moral one. We are proud to contribute to the welfare of our communities and the preservation of our environment, and we remain committed to operating in a way that benefits both people and the planet.
As we look to the future, we will continue to prioritize sustainable practices, ethical labor conditions, and community engagement, ensuring that our success is shared with all those who make our journey possible.